Wayne Osmond, a founding brother of the iconic family band The Osmonds, has sadly passed away at the age of 73. Known for his skills as a singer and guitarist, Wayne co-wrote many of the group's chart-topping hits, including “Crazy Horses,” “Goin' Home,” and “Let Me In.” His brother Donny expressed profound sorrow, stating, “He brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him.” Merrill Osmond eloquently described Wayne as a “genius” in music, emphasizing his ability to “capture the hearts of millions” and his remarkable humility.
Born in August 1951 in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was the fourth of nine siblings raised in a devout Mormon family. He showcased his vocal talent early on, performing as part of a barbershop quartet alongside brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay. By 1961, the Osmond brothers had become a staple at Disneyland in Florida, and their first major appearance on television was in 1962 on "The Andy Williams Show." The group quickly garnered acclaim, affectionately branded as the “one-take Osmonds” due to their polished performances.
In 1963, Wayne welcomed younger brother Donny into the fold, further expanding their sound with pop elements. Initially struggling with their singles, they found commercial success with “One Bad Apple,” which topped the US charts for five weeks in 1971. This breakthrough established The Osmonds as a significant presence in the pop music landscape, attracting crowds reminiscent of The Beatles whenever they toured.
However, the pop industry's volatility led to a decrease in record sales during the mid-1970s. Concurrently, Donny and Marie Osmond's successful variety show shift prompted the band to take a hiatus, leading to their formal dissolution in 1980. Despite this, the group reunited for occasional performances over the following decades.
Wayne battled health hardships throughout his life, including a childhood brain tumor, which led to cognitive difficulties. A debilitating stroke in 2012 further impacted his health. Nonetheless, he continued to perform with his brothers, culminating in a final appearance on the 2019 TV show "The Talk," where the siblings offered heartfelt gratitude to their fans with the song "The Last Chapter."
In the wake of his passing, Wayne is survived by his wife Kathlyn and five children: Amy, Steven, Gregory, Sarah, and Michelle, along with eight siblings: Virl, Tom, Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie, and Jimmy. As musicians and family members reflect on Wayne's life, they celebrate not only a talented artist but a loving brother who found joy in everyday life, like tending to his garden. His legacy, undoubtedly, will continue to resonate with fans and family alike.
Born in August 1951 in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was the fourth of nine siblings raised in a devout Mormon family. He showcased his vocal talent early on, performing as part of a barbershop quartet alongside brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay. By 1961, the Osmond brothers had become a staple at Disneyland in Florida, and their first major appearance on television was in 1962 on "The Andy Williams Show." The group quickly garnered acclaim, affectionately branded as the “one-take Osmonds” due to their polished performances.
In 1963, Wayne welcomed younger brother Donny into the fold, further expanding their sound with pop elements. Initially struggling with their singles, they found commercial success with “One Bad Apple,” which topped the US charts for five weeks in 1971. This breakthrough established The Osmonds as a significant presence in the pop music landscape, attracting crowds reminiscent of The Beatles whenever they toured.
However, the pop industry's volatility led to a decrease in record sales during the mid-1970s. Concurrently, Donny and Marie Osmond's successful variety show shift prompted the band to take a hiatus, leading to their formal dissolution in 1980. Despite this, the group reunited for occasional performances over the following decades.
Wayne battled health hardships throughout his life, including a childhood brain tumor, which led to cognitive difficulties. A debilitating stroke in 2012 further impacted his health. Nonetheless, he continued to perform with his brothers, culminating in a final appearance on the 2019 TV show "The Talk," where the siblings offered heartfelt gratitude to their fans with the song "The Last Chapter."
In the wake of his passing, Wayne is survived by his wife Kathlyn and five children: Amy, Steven, Gregory, Sarah, and Michelle, along with eight siblings: Virl, Tom, Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie, and Jimmy. As musicians and family members reflect on Wayne's life, they celebrate not only a talented artist but a loving brother who found joy in everyday life, like tending to his garden. His legacy, undoubtedly, will continue to resonate with fans and family alike.
